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Bloomington
Indiana University Bloomington
Celebrate the Spirit of IU

Experience Hoosier heritage

Your time at IU Bloomington is shaped by long-standing traditions that spark pride, connection, and community—from cream and crimson spirit to the Little 500, homecoming, and the celebrations that mark each season.

The race that defines the Hoosier spirit

The Little 500: What started in 1951 as a student bicycle race is now one of the most iconic college traditions in the country, uniting campus with a week of energy, teamwork, and Hoosier pride.

Student in striped overalls singing into microphone on football field in front of band members.

Indiana, Our Indiana

The fight song you need to know

What began as a student‑written song in 1912 is now one of IU’s most recognizable traditions, sung by generations of Hoosiers at every major campus moment. You’ll hear it everywhere—and soon you’ll know it by heart. 

Campus Highlights

Traditions that shape the year

IU traditions unfold across fall, winter, and spring—welcoming new students, rallying the campus, and bringing Hoosiers together for iconic events, spirited gatherings, and meaningful causes.
  • Student celebrates Welcome Week surrounded by red balloons and IU spirit.

    Hoosier Welcome

    Launch your IU journey with weeks full of activities, meet‑ups, and events designed to help you settle in, make friends, and feel at home from the moment you arrive.

  • Homecoming parade features IU cheerleaders in red uniforms and pom-poms.

    Homecoming

    Join students and alumni for a week of festivities—from the parade to the football game—celebrating Hoosier pride and the campus community that connects generations.

  • Students in tie-dye shirts cheer as a participant walks through a Dance Marathon tunnel.

    Dance Marathon

    Experience one of IU’s most iconic traditions and one of the world's largest philanthropic efforts, the IU Dance Marathon.